Last month we brought you the news the Queensland Government had passed legislation to amend the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. Those changes started yesterday.
The key changes are:
- Health and safety representatives no longer have the power to direct workers to stop unsafe work.
- Employers are no longer required to provide a list of appointed health and safety representatives to Work Health and Safety Queensland.
- Permit holders are now required to give at least 24 hours’ notice to enter a workplace to inspect a safety breach.
- The maximum penalty for breaches of permit conditions (including the requirement to give notice prior to entering a workplace) has been increased from $11,000 to $22,000.
It is important for all employers to be aware of the power held by permit holders and health and safety representatives. The incorrect use of that power can have significant effect on the reputation and profitability of a business.
We will continue to bring you Stop Press News items to keep you up-to-date and informed about changes to legislation as they happen.